They provide a lifeline to thousands of disabled and elderly people, giving them the ability to get out and about in spite of mobility problems.

But mobility scooters are also becoming the transport of choice for some people without any barriers to walking – Benidorm’s Madge being just one example.

Former Plymouth MP Alison Seabeck secured a parliamentary debate in 2012 calling for tighter laws on such vehicles, claiming the number of able-bodied youngsters using them as a cheap alternatives to cars was spiralling out of control.

Her comments came after a young driver was allegedly spotted cruising along a Devon seafront with his golf clubs in the rear basket, prompting a serious debate in the corridors of power.

But can anyone use a mobility scooter, and do users need to pass a test before they take to the paths?

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As tens of thousands of pounds’ worth of mobility scooters went under the hammer this week at Scuthorpe-based auctioneers CJM Asset Management, we look at what the law says you can and cannot do on a mobility scooter.

What exactly is a mobility scooter?

Mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs are designed to help elderly or disabled people retain their independence, by offering a battery-powered mode of transport enabling users to get from A to B. They fall into two categories: class 2 invalid carriages and class 3 invalid carriages.

Class 2 carriages are generally lighter than class 3 vehicles. Some smaller models are specifically designed for indoor use while others can be used outdoors.

There has been a rise in people using mobility scooters who do not need them

Class 3 vehicles must be fitted with lights, indicators, a horn, a rear view mirror and rear reflectors. They generally have larger seats and can carry more weight than class 2 models, and are often geared up to travel 25 – 30 miles before they need recharging.

Can I drive a mobility scooter on the road?

You cannot drive a class 2 invalid carriage on the road, except when crossing the road or where there is not a pavement. Class 3 vehicles can be driven both on and off the road, but they cannot be used in bus lanes, cycle lanes or on the motorway.

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Dual carriageways with a speed limit above 50mph should be avoided, though they are legally OK to drive on. However, if you happen to find yourself and your class 3 mobility scooter driving along the A63, you must use an amber flashing light for visibility.

Must drivers prove they have a physical impairment before they bag a scooter?

According to www.gov.uk, "only people who have trouble walking because of an injury, physical disability or medical condition" can drive a mobility scooter.

There are a few exceptions for able-bodied people, who can use them if they are demonstrating the vehicle before it is sold, training a disabled user or taking the vehicle to or from being maintained or repaired.

Regardless of these facts, they appear to be proving attractive to some people who have no medical need for them, as recognised by the parliamentary debate. According to a Hull-based mobility expert, this remains a grey area because anybody can go out and buy or hire one, without breaking the law.

THREE WHEELER: Paul Cooper, operations director at auctioneers CJM Asset Management in Scunthorpe, with one of the carriages that went under the hammer

Do I need to be a certain age to drive one?

Drivers of a class 3 invalid carriage must be 14-years-old or above. For class 2 vehicles, there is no law governing ages, though in the case of mobility scooters it would probably help if you were tall enough to reach the pedals. Anyone under the age of 14 with no medical need for such a vehicle might be better suited to a skateboard.

Do drivers need to take a test before they hit the road?

No, but users who drive their class 3 carriage on a road should adhere to the Highway Code at all times. If you are looking to hire such a vehicle, some hire shops will not loan you one without you first passing an in-house competence test.

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I have bought myself a mobility scooter. Do I need to inform the authorities?

Not for a class 2 invalid carriage. Class 3 invalid carriages must be registered and taxed with the DVLA. Unlike car tax, there is no cost for taxing a class 3 invalid carriage.

What about insurance?

Insurance is not a legal requirement, though it is recommended in case of theft, damage or a collision. Official figures show mobility scooters were involved in nine fatal road accidents last year, as well as almost 100 reported injuries.

How fast can I drive my new set of wheels?

The speed limit for driving mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs is 4mph on the pavement, and 8mph on the road.

Can I put ‘go faster’ stripes on my vehicle?

So long as you own the carriage, you can pimp it up as you see fit, but bear in mind the impact this might have on its resale value. If you are hiring the vehicle, adding décor is definitely not recommended as you are liable to receive a fine. For a more temporary solution, you could always add a couple of furry dice to the front basket, but take care these do not get tangled in the wheels.